New Inflation Rates - Sept 13

To the Secretary all Branches,Council of Executive members,Regional Councils and Regional Offices.

Tuesday 17th September 2013

Dear Colleagues,

New Inflation Rates

The Office for National Statistics has just published new inflation figures for the twelve months to August 2013.

The Retail Prices Index (RPI) stood at 3.3% for the year to August 2013, up from the 3.1% figure to July 2013.

The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) stood at 2.7% for the year to August 2013, down from the 2.8% figure to July 2013.

According to the ONS, the cost of furniture, household equipment & maintenance rose most steeply (especially furniture & furnishings as well as major appliances & small electric goods). There was also a smaller rise in food & non-alcoholic beverages and in recreation & culture costs (especially games, toys and hobbies).

RMT pay submissions will continue to emphasise that your financial commitments have increased at a greater rate than official inflation and that your living standards are undermined by this disparity.